It’s not like there needs to be an excuse to celebrate Rosé, thus it’s rather funny that there are several days in the calendar marked to fete pink wine. So don’t fret if you forgot to toast Rosé June 8 for National Rosé Day — which is usually the second Saturday of June — International Rosé Day will be here before you know it on June 28 (the fourth Friday each June). Better yet, forget the specific days and simply embrace that Rosé season has officially arrived.
Portillo 2022 Rosé Malbec, Argentina ($14.99 on sale until June 29, #137474) Millenia ago Roman gourmand Apicius opined “We eat first with our eyes,” and this can extend to wine. Indeed we drink first with our eyes as well, and there is no better wine style to appreciate visually than Rosé.
The many shades are poetic and romantic, including the blushing sunset-pink hue of Portillo’s Rosé Malbec. Aromas of red berry abound in this soft and inviting pink wine, which stays approachable through its fresh but soft stance and easygoing, balanced finish. The winery suggests pairing with pizza, fish, shellfish, pasta, or salad — and yes, it’s food friendly enough to consider all the above.
Bottom line: B, Patio ready. Bartier Bros. 2023 Rosé, B.
C. ($19.99, #35609) It’s always exciting to see a new vintage of Rosé landing on shelves, which is what we’re now seeing from a number of local wineries.
This includes Bartier Bros., whose rosé arrives in the lightest shade of pale pink, o.